‘Violent juvenile off the streets.’ Monroe Police use K9 and drone to catch armed teen suspect

MONROE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A 17-year-old repeat offender was caught this week by Monroe Police using new drone technology and K9 Narco after reportedly running from officers.

According to the Monroe Police Department, officers found the teen with two handguns but had to release him because of North Carolina’s “raise the age” law. Later in the day, police got a custody order and tried to arrest him, but he ran into the woods.

Officers said they launched a drone to track him from above and used live video to guide K9 Narco to where the teen was hiding in a culvert.

Narco and his handler went in and took the teen into custody.

The teen was treated for a dog bite at a local hospital before being taken to a juvenile detention center. He faces several charges, including having guns illegally and assault by pointing a gun.

I appreciate the hard work and dedication by our detectives and officers, along with the assistance of the DA’s office in getting this violent juvenile off the streets. The technology and resources our department utilizes are a testament to our ability to locate and apprehend individuals while also helping us keep the community safe.

Monroe Chief Bolen